Apparel Riding

7 Best Cowboy Boots for Arch Support Strugglers

Cowboy boots
mm
Written by Natalie Gasper

Do cowboy boots provide arch support? It depends.

Being on your feet all day is hard, so it’s important to find a comfortable boot for all-day activities. Never fear, as we’ve compiled a list of boots that offer the best support.

Good arch support is all about the insole, so look for companies like Ariat, Durango, and Tecovas that offer special insole technology. A one- to two-inch heel is perfect, and a square toe means your foot will have plenty of room. Breathable linings will add comfort, as will padded or cushioned insoles. A waterproof boot is the perfect choice for working, riding, and having fun.

Boot Basics: What to Look for in a Riding Boot

Choose a boot that has at least a one-inch heel to prevent your foot from getting stuck in the stirrup if you were to fall. You also want a boot with a comfortably snug fit, so a shorter shaft may be preferable. Look for rubber or non-slip sole, and keep in mind that water resistant or waterproof products may hold up longer.

Factors for Better Arch Support:

  • Wide heel
  • Wide or square toe
  • A cushioning insole (or room to put in the insole of your choosing)
  • Proper fit (snug but not tight)

Our Picks for Arch Support

Category Option Price Point Key Features
Best Overall Ariat Women’s Anthem $$$ Fashion + function, many sizes
Best Men’s Boot Ariat Men’s Rambler $$$ Clean design, rubber outsole
Best Women’s Boot Ariat Fatbaby Heritage $$ Fun colors, 4LR technology
Best for Summer Durango Men’s Rebel $$$ Multiple colors, lightweight
Best for Winter Ariat Women’s Hybrid Rancher $$$$ 400 grams of Thinsulate insulation, quality stitchwork
Best on a Budget Roper Women’s Riley $ Synthetic leather, beautiful embroidery
Best for a Splurge Corral Women’s White Glitter Inlay $$$$ Show-stopping design, lots of embellishment

Ariat Women’s Anthem

This pure leather boot can do it all, from working to riding to going out. The breathable mesh lining will help keep you cool while the EVA midsole offers world-class support.

These boots are incredibly comfortable, with a sneaker-like feel; our experience with them required zero break-in period.

ariat anthem boot

Click to see them at Amazon

PROS:

  • 4LR technology
  • Waterproof
  • One-inch heel
  • Fits many different foot types

CONS:

  • May take a few tries to get the perfect size

See them at Amazon

Ariat Men’s Rambler

These boots feature a simple, distressed design that looks great around the barn and for going out.

The material is lightweight and easy to maintain.

ariat rambler boot

Click to see them at Amazon

PROS:

  • ATS technology
  • Wicks moisture
  • Resistant to wear and tear

CONS:

  • Not waterproof

See them at Amazon

Ariat Fatbaby Heritage

Cushioning foot support paired with great style makes these boots a standout.

The lightweight shank provides stabilization, making these boots perfect for riding and working.

ariat fatbaby boots

Click to see them at Amazon

PROS:

  • Playful design
  • Four-layer footbed
  • Durable soles

CONS:

  • Not waterproof

See them at Amazon

Durango Men’s Rebel

Look no further for the best in function and fashion. The DSS (Durango Suspension System) means all-day comfort. 

Plus, the shock-absorbing midsole perfectly supports your arches.

durango rebel boots

Click to see them at Amazon

PROS:

  • 100% leather
  • Easy pull-on holes
  • Slip-resistant outer sole
  • No break-in period

CONS:

  • Some users feel the sizes run a bit small or large, so you may need to try multiple sizes for the best fit

See them at Amazon

Ariat Women’s Hybrid Rancher

Your feet will be warm, dry, and fashionable with these waterproof boots from Ariat.

The design makes them equally suited for barn work and riding.

ariat rancher boot

Click to see them at Amazon

PROS:

  • 4LR technology
  • Duratread outsole
  • Built to last

CONS:

  • Some wearers say the boots are true to size but longer than normal

See them at Amazon

Roper Women’s Riley

This boot combines comfort with fashion, offering four fun colors with classic Western embroidery.

Choose these if you only need cowboy boots occasionally or are looking for a fresh pair of boots to liven up your wardrobe.

roper boot

Click to see them at Amazon

PROS:

  • Affordable
  • Padded footbed
  • Lining is breathable

CONS:

  • Snip toe (not the best for flat feet)
  • Some customers say the colors don’t match the pictures

See them at Amazon

Corral Women’s White Glitter Inlay Cowgirl Boot

Everyone should splurge now and then, and these sparkling boots are the way to go. You can pair them with any summer or wedding outfit.

They combine a classic cowboy design with all the glam you could ever want.

corral boots

Click to see them at Amazon

PROS:

  • Cushioned insole
  • Extravagant color and crystal details
  • Good for large calves

CONS:

  • Snip toe design is not great for flat feet

See them at Amazon

Spotlight: Blackrock Leather ‘N’ Rich

Looking for a leather cleaning alternative to saddle soap, mink oil, conditioners, and preservers? Blackrock was founded in 1976 and quickly become a household name—for good reason.

Not only does it breath new life into any finished leather product, Blackrock products are made in the USA. Blackrock is safe to use on boots, shoes, saddles, tack, furniture, car interiors, and everything in between. (Note: Don’t use it on suede or nubuck.)

Plus, the company pledges 1% of sales to the preservation and restoration of the natural environment.

“If it’s leather… use Blackrock!”

Click to see Blackrock Leather Care Products

blackrock leather cleaner

Blackrock Complete Leather Care Kit

blackrock leather cleaner review

Here’s a leather jacket that hadn’t been cleaned in 20 years after a single Blackrock application!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What cowboy boots are good for flat feet?

Look for companies that focus on quality insoles and arch support. Ariat, Chisos, and Tecovas are great places to start. Boots with square toes are also preferable. Learn more here. [Link to article 87]

Q: Are cowboy boots good for arches?

Most cowboy boots lack a midsole, or the part that supports your arches. Fortunately, companies like Ariat have special insole technology that offers fantastic support.

Q: Do Ariat shoes have arch support?

Yes! Ariat is a great brand for arch support. They design shoes with comfort and function in mind.

Q: Are cowboy boots supportive?

A well-designed cowboy boot is very supportive. If the boot has a one- to two-inch heel (and that heel is wide, not narrow like in some women’s shoes), a square toe, and a supportive insole, then your cowboy boot will keep you happy on your feet all day long.

Parting Thoughts

Thanks to innovative designs and new insole technologies, arch support in cowboy boots has never been so good.

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About the author

mm

With a bachelor's degree in creative writing from the University of Central Florida and an editing certificate from the University of Washington, my decade-long writing journey has been a kaleidoscope of diverse experiences. I've had the privilege of contributing to a spectrum of platforms, including newspapers, print and online magazines, literary journals, and individual clients on subjects spanning from horse care, gardening, motorcycles, to exploring East Asia.